Should English be the United States' official language?

144 Comments

  • Tom - 7 years ago

    As an individual who works in a school, I have been frustrated when a parent , who has lived in this country for 10 years, comes in upset.

    We have to scramble for someone who speaks English, then go through the annoyance of taking twice the time due to translation.

    I understand that our refugees from Somalia cannot speak English, but Puerto Rico? Give me a break.

    They teach English in the schools, it is a Commonwealth of the US, takes aid.

    It is just refusal.

    When I traveled to France, I learned French, when I traveled to Spain, I learned Spanish- Italy, the same thing.

    I do not expect anyone to have to translate for me. It is called assimilation.

  • Peter - 8 years ago

    As someone who is English I think the American people could show a little more respect more my native tongue.
    I do not learn French and then speak it in my own country with incorrect pronunciation and spelling (e.g. Aluminium and Colour respective examples).
    And what is this constant need to abuse words, twisting their meaning so I need to take out an hour to get to the meaning of a sentence. An example here would be 'inflection'. In context 'Customer inflection points'. Is that 'communication'?
    Definition: a rise or fall in the sound of a person's voice OR change in curvature of an arc or curve from concave to convex or conversely
    So I think what they are trying to say (referring to the second definition) is 'things that might cause a customer to change a buying decision'?
    What? Don't ever try communication in a critical position such as a battle field. You will be dead before the enemy starts laughing.
    English is a rich and wonderful language. There is plenty of scope for putting your ideas over without this constant reference to euphemism and what can only be described as language misuse.
    I understand that languages need to develop in order to remain modern and relevant but so me the right way to do that is to take on new parts to the language rather than make what we already have ambiguous. If you want another favourite of mine 'instantiate'? The list goes on and on.

  • Don - 11 years ago

    I live in Central Florida. We have a new hospital opening soon. As a retired law enforcement officer that speaks some Spanish, I do qualify to apply for a security officer position. Another retired law enforcement officer with over 35 years of experience most as a US Marshal, cannot apply as he does not speak Spanish. They have made Spanish a Bona Fide Occupational Qualification (BFOQ) in the USA in this particular location for that particular position. There are so many persons in the area that speak only Spanish and limited English. This is becoming true in many occupations throughout Central Florida. I believe that I am witnessing a huge change in our Country. The other day, people I know were talking about their 14 year old daughter being pregnant and their excitement about becoming grand parents. No one thought about that girl having to be a mother so young. When I asked about the father, I was told he is 15. There was no discussion about his supporting the child or being admonished for impregnating the girl. I can only speak/address my area but I think back to my youth and a song that was popular and very appropriate for today; "The Times They Are A Changin' "...at least Dylan is still alive to witness this one as well...In a few more years they may even laugh about the idea that it was once proposed that English be made the "Official Language"

  • writeroflife - 11 years ago

    As I read through these comments I began to see a trent that was just a little disturbing. This act, H.R. 997, does not state that the language of the United States will be "English-only." It proposes that the official language would be English so that all laws and official documents will first be in English. This is in case there is an argument about interpretation. If it is in three different languages, it could possibly mean three different things. So, to settle these kinds of disputes, they would all be in English first. That doesn't mean they also won't be printed in Spanish or Italian or German.
    Supporters of this act are not asking everyone in the U.S. to speak English, they are simply wishing to make it the official language for documents and laws.
    If we all really think about it, this act isn't about race or country of origin, it is about having important documents in one language so that there is no misunderstanding.
    Now, I do believe that everyone should take the time to learn as many languages as they can. This also goes for non-English speakers. The more languages one knows, the easier it will be for us to communicate with our neighbors.
    Will an official language unite us? No, of course not.
    But it is not any certain language that will keep us together, it is the way we treat one another.
    When will we learn that judging people on the color of their skin, the God they worship or the language they speak is only hurting us worse? We are ignorant and we need to realize that it is destructive.
    I believe that H.R. 997 should pass, but only for the sake of understanding when it comes to official documents.
    Thank you!!

  • MTS - 12 years ago

    My parents were imigrants from Italy and came to the US and didn't know the language, they worked very hard and learned ENGLISH!! We make it too easy for immigrants, English is the official language of our country and they should be required to learn it.

  • Vanitha - 12 years ago

    I come from a multilingual country. It's horrible to live such a society. I hope US has one official language. People can continue speak their language at home.

  • Sue - 12 years ago

    First we need to refer to this nation as the United States of America since there are other nations in the Americas.
    Second, our founding fathers could not have anticipated today's situation. Take for example supervisors in fire departments who do not speak Spanish as do many of the firefighters. The communication problem results in the non-English speakers maintaining employment and the English speaking supervisors loosing their jobs.
    We already provide English in schools for Speakers of Other Languages (formerly ESOL). We would save by not having to use taxpayer dollars to hire interpreters.
    Those who come to the US of A should be allowed to be a resident for a limited period of time. If each of these temporary residents plan to apply for citizenship, English would be provided as part of the process via adult education classes paired with citizenship classes.
    We need to stop apologizing for having requirements, behavioral expectations etc. Having English as the official language does not stop the speaking of other languages. English is the official language of business, education, legal affairs, etc. De facto assumptions are insufficient.
    Sue
    Sue

  • Amy - 12 years ago

    Congress should pass English as our Nation's official language and all schools should use total immersion for students to learn it. Immediately whether or not it becomes official, all papers in this Nation should only be printed in English. We waste far too many resources printing everything in two or more languages. It's nuts! English only, NOW.

  • Kevin - 12 years ago

    In order to facilitate communication, a common language is necessary, but there is nothing wrong with speaking other languages as well. In Indonesia for example, there are many languages spoken throughout the country, but Malay was adopted as the national language, Bahasa Indonesia (Indonesian Language). This way, people from different parts of the country can communicate. It did not mean that anyone had to stop speaking his local language, only that there was a common language throughout the country that everyone could communicate with.

  • Clark Felgner - 12 years ago

    Why are we having this debate! Most of the world is taught English early in their development and we here in the United States are still tyring to understand each other. Although we are a country of many ethnic backgrounds, there has to be some common ground and if we start by making ENGLISH the official language, maybe then we can work toward understanding our differences!!! A constituional ammendment would cement this and put this issue finally to rest!!!

  • chili - 12 years ago

    Just one quick note: I believe America is the land of opportunity and all who seek it should be welcomed to this great country no matter their background. But, this country's primary language is English that is obvious. But so is the desire for the immigrant to come to the US. If their personal ambition has brought them here for a better life for them and for their families shouldn't it be their responsibility to learn the language with as much viable assistance as America can provide. I am from a Latino family that grew up on the border. Spanish is the primary language spoken... Does this mean our schools should teach in Spanish? Of course not. Providing means to assist in learning the English language is admirable but, it is also inherent that the immigrant takes it upon themselves to learn the language.

  • ratherBthepope - 12 years ago

    Would someone please inform me of a government session, press conference, or meeting that was held in any language other than English? Has any President, Speaker of the House, Congressman, or state delegate tried to communicate with the public in a language other than English? Don't worry, I'll be here all night.

    It seems to me that certain people are getting self-righteous and indignant because they're afraid that this country will be inhabited with a majority of people who are different from them, and they won't have all the control anymore. Isn't that what they did to American Indians?

  • Seaira - 12 years ago

    Americans should be open to challenging ourselves to learn another language. In other countries, its is commonplace to know multiple languages, yet in the US we nearly get offended when any threat to traditional Americana is presented. Yes, it may be frustrating when people don't know English (say in a supermarket or retail store), but if we make an extra effort to learn the most prevalent languages in our country (thereby embracing current trends in immigration) Americans will be much better off and more competitive in the global market. As someone said above, America is a nation of immigrants.

  • citizen - 12 years ago

    Yes, English should be the official language it is simple signs are in english in most places. I respect the need for diversity but if your in America you should know at least enough english to function properly. What you do at home is your business 100% so but outside of your home you need to be able to understand others.

  • A guy - 12 years ago

    When my great-great-grandfather came here in 1850 he didn't speak english, but he learned pretty quick. he spoke german at home for the rest of his life, but when he did business at his shop he did it in english.

  • matt - 12 years ago

    Actually, in areas of the world where there are a lot of visiting Americans, most people there speak English. So, those of you that don't think we should not accomodate those who speak Spanish, even though have ancestry in this country by way of California, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona, you need to think about how hard it would be for you to travel to another country if they didn't cater to tourists. It's ridiculous to think that because you and your ancestors spoke English, everyone should speak English. I understand that English has always been spoken, but there are Native Spanish speakers who have been here longer than English speakers. We fought Mexico and took 4 of our states from them forceably. They spoke Spanish long before we spoke English there. I'm also tired of this for the sake of unity crap. We are the United States. Liberty and Justice For ALL. Let's go ahead and make Christianity the official religion and white the official skin color while we're at it, then we'll all look the same.

  • Kevin - 12 years ago

    Maria, what a racist rant! Good and bad people come from everywhere and come in every color. Race has nothing to do with it. When will bigots like you realize that race doesn't matter?

  • Maria - 12 years ago

    Kicking: responding your comment,you are 100% right everything you wrote is true! I have similar views,they came here they use and abuse this beautiful Country and they ask for more,what about speak the language? This Country help them more than any place else,and they take advance of it.They even get mad because you don't speak Spanish .....how dare! They have college education free for their kids, everything paid by the Government ,you read the newspaper the police page and all they are Hispanics commiting crimes like raping kids,beating the wives,thiefs,pedophiles,child molesters...where this people come from? in top of hat not even working teh Government take care of them.I am 67 and I still working to meet the needs.

  • Maria - 12 years ago

    "When you go to Rome you speak Roman" is a say from our culture...you should speak English, and the Americans should not have to learn Spanish to be able to work in their "own" Country.I read in the newspaper a American woman was not able to get a job in McDonalds because everyone one there were Cubans and them didn't speak English...how sad you are in your own Country and can't get a job? this people "don't want to speak or learn English, it is night classes in every High Schol to learn the language.Everyone should speak English You come here illegal get a good life ,and in top of that don't want to learn or speak the language that is a INSULT!

  • csmallfield - 12 years ago

    Typical arrogant Americans. There is no need to make an official language, it's obviously necessary in order to be a part of this country. If you've ever been abroad, most other countries accomodate English speakers. American's are treated so well in Europe and Asia, but we treat those that visit us like crap. It's makes me ashamed sometimes.

  • C - 12 years ago

    Puerto Rico is officially part of the United States, with Spanish as an official language in part of the United States...

  • Jackie - 12 years ago

    Interesting reading through here. Most of you have no idea what you're talking about. English being "established" in America during colonization for business purposes? No. No not at all.

    But it IS true that declaring an official language, any language, is UNCONSTITUTIONAL.

    And how many of you actually speak two languages? I find that most Americans don't. Especially middle-aged white Americans. Why don't you learn another language so you can put in some volunteer time teaching someone else to speak English? Not willing to put forth the time and effort yourself? Then why would you ask that anyone else do so? Oh, right. To make YOUR life easier, not theirs.

  • elle - 12 years ago

    It's one thing to speak of laws and language theoretically but another to stand in the shoes of somebody struggling to make him/herself understood. Not all immigrants have years in this country, and some of them are working so hard that their exhaustion gets in the way of learning, such as taking night classes. Most immigrant kids are eager to pick up the new language and fit in, but in the meantime, the stress of being in a world where they can't understand or get help if needed is very frustrating. My four grandparents arrived in this country around the turn of the 20th century; they had six kids apiece, as people did in the Old Country. I always want to extend kindness to people just arriving in honor of my grandparents' sacrifices so that their descendants could be successful. Nobody knows better than the immigrants themselves that learning English is vital to getting ahead here, but making daily living more difficult for them by refusing to translate anything at all is needlessly inkind.

  • Nicholas - 12 years ago

    Our nation is becoming Balcanized; sometimes I feel like I am in another country.
    Other languages are great but one language should be universal to the USA. Many are left out because of a refusal to learn the one common language.

    AND WHEN BALLOTS, DRIVING TESTS AND OTHER GOVERNMENT QUESTIONAIRS ARE MULITLINGUAL WHAT HAPPENED TO THE REQUIREMENT TO UNDERSTAND ENGLISH TO BECOME A CITIZEN.

    Thanks for the opportunity to vent.

  • Kevin - 12 years ago

    To me, anyone who wants to live somewhere should learn the language, whatever language it is. In the USA, English is the most widely spoken and so anyone who wants to live here would be better off being fluent in English. A good argument can also be made for Spanish as a second language. It has been my experience that life is much easier when you can communicate with the people around you. I have had the experience of not being able to do that and it was extremely frustrating. It motivated me to learn the language where I was and that made life a lot easier for me there.

  • keith a dewey - 12 years ago

    I am a liberal trained in social science of sociology.

    The English dictionary has over a million words. The Spanish dictionary has about 250,000. Pilots use English, it takes less time to convey a message in English then it does in any other language. Shakespeare out did Faust because of English. Bilingual instructions or information on consumer products and public documents takes more resources; paper, ink, time, etc.

    Many places in the world English is listed for safety and tourist convenience but not accepted as an abbreviate or custom. India has numerous dialects of Hindi but is united in speaking and writing English. All public documents I ever saw there were only in English.

    Conclusion: Don't humiliate or denigrate non-English speaking persons. Structure determines behavior. Manifest a system that motivates a person into learning English.
    Not being able to understand, read or speak English is a handicap.

  • Sharon - 12 years ago

    I think it boils down to one question: If you were in an accident and the doctor was asking you are you allergic to X and X would kill you if it was given to you, would you want the doctor to only speak another language? I believe that if you choose to migrate to another country, you learn the language and customs of that country.

  • PJ - 12 years ago

    This is America. We speak English. If you can't speak English( or as they may say no comprendo english), please do us a favor and take your border jumpin @$$es back over the fence please.

  • mezmama - 12 years ago

    Hate to disillusion most of you posters...language is quite fluid and is constantly changing. English (and every other language for that matter) will not be the same language it is now 400 years into the future any more than English is the same as it was in Shakespeare's time. Additionally, language cannot be legislated any more than forcing anyone not to be bigoted and ignorant (as so many of you posters have so aptly proven). My guess (purely a guess) is that in the future (in about 100 years) we will all be speaking a form of Spanglish whether you or I like it or not.
    One other observation...only in America will you find the majority of its citizens literate (and I use that term very loosely) in only one language. Most of the world's citizens can speak in more than one language, be it English or any other language. Americans tend to be xenophobic and ethnocentric to the extreme.
    And to those of you who think that multilingualism is not feasible, what languages are spoken in Switzerland? Belgium?

  • Why - 12 years ago

    No English No citizenship! No papers No entry ! illegal entry into country, OUT! No benefits of any kind for an illegal immigrants. No schooling, No Job, No rental housing, Make life hell on earth to live illegal in the USA!

  • DRC - 12 years ago

    None of this would be an issue at all if some of these so called "immigrants" had the respect for the US to want to learn English. Instead they refuse, and get upset when we do not speak Spanish for instance. The audacity of these people who want to come here and feel the US should cater to them is why this issue has come up.

  • J Salinas - 12 years ago

    This poll is asking more than one question and the answer I want is not there. I would say "No" it should not be America's official language because it has always been this way. Multiculturalism wasn't even a figment of the founding fathers' imagination. It was left blank because this is the greatest, most free, and open nation on earth. The system is this way so that the truest solution flows naturally from the people and we need as fewest encumbrances to this as possible.

    It's not about immigrants getting free English classes or some other jingoistic narrow mindedness.

  • Donna L Hill Powell - 12 years ago

    Addendum to previous comment, for people to assimilate well, live well there must be understanding and compreshension of all the basics. That means orderly, carefully and respectfully doing the right thing. This hundred thousands of persons sneaking across borders to take what they can is just another large bunch of criminals. If they want to learn from us, how we came to be such a powerful society, then they must do things properly and honorably. If they're here to steal, take, divide and/or harm our land or commerce in any way, they become an enemy, not a friend or neighbor and should be treated accordingly. Mr. Gingrich's speech seems more cohesive and inclusive of ways to handle the need than any I've heard as yet.

  • Donna L Hill Powell - 12 years ago

    English is our language, learn it or leave. Multi-lingualism divides any country and impairs productivity in general, throughout any society. OUR commerce is negatively impacted by this gap in basic understanding.

    If a person is qualified to be here, then they should be given a definite period of time to learn what they should know, [agreeing with Mr. Gingrich's speech]. To be an American means a lot, and to be a citizen requires you learn a lot. After that, language proficiency should be adequate, however if not, then consideration for rejection/ejection should be entered.

  • jerameel - 12 years ago

    first of all, just wanted to state that the saying "this is america" is wrong, and those who wrote this article and who are commenting on it should learn the difference. This is NOT America. its the United States of America. when you say this is america, you encompass both north and south america into one statement. and English is not the predominant language in the Americas. its Actually spanish. English is the predominant language in The United States of America. fyi. now, as to should this country be speaking english as official language? no. this country was founded on the right to keep your cultural and religious identity and not have it infringed upon. by declaring english the official language, you are forcing a language, onto the public, and saying "your native language is inferior, which makes your culture inferior". is this a country where we do that to one another? or one where we celebrate these differences in culture?

  • wgmb - 12 years ago

    We are the only country in the world not having an official language; why?
    When I took up citizenship in 1975, I had to demonstrate a basic knowledge of English; what happened to that.
    English classes are fine.
    William Pisani: there is freedom of speech; you can speak any language you like; however, speak English to me and the Government, that's what it is all about.
    Usian: "If English would have been the official language 60 years ago, GW Bush would have never been president"; it would have been a blessing.
    Michael: No other country has two official languages; they all have only one; this doesn't mean that other languages wouldn't be tolerated, but not as official language
    Michael: English is not the native language in America; but it is the language that 95% of the people speak.
    If English is not the official language, then why are we discriminating against Italians, Germans, Chinese, etc. by printing official documents only in English and Spanish?
    Having said of all of this, English should be the official language, but it also makes sense to teach Spanish in school (mandatory) as this is the second most dominate language today.

  • Mario - 12 years ago

    Join the revolution. Boycott all business that Hire illegals. I already boycott my local McDonalds because all the employees speak spanish with the exception of the token at the register that speaks English. If they can't assimilate don't participate. Boycott, Boycott them all.

  • Come On - 12 years ago

    This is a red herring. That being said, English has been the unofficial official language of this country for a long time, and I see no reason it shouldn't be official. All of our legal and business documents are in English, and it is the language spoken by the majority of U.S. citizens. My ancestors immigrated to this country and worked very hard to learn English. While they were never really fluent, they were proud of what they could speak. When I visit a foreign country I try to learn as much of the language as I can. If I were going to move somewhere on a long term basis, I would make darn sure I learned the language. In most areas I'm a flaming liberal, but there is a point where it becomes ridiculous.

  • yuki - 12 years ago

    not to be rude but the comments here almost looks like you guys hate
    people that don't know english. you know its not easy learning a new language
    i m an american and speak 100% english but i can't learn my moms spanish

  • Barry - 12 years ago

    America - named for Amerigo Vespucci who spoke no English at all.
    This land was at one time inhabited by many hundreds of peoples speaking many hundreds of indigenous languages. Then the Europeans came - and added Spanish, French, Dutch, Swedish - and English, to the landscape. Today, many millions speak Spanish, and millions more speak a host of other languages. Many of our cities and states have Spanish or Native-American names. English, it turns out, may just be an historical passing fancy. Languages on the land come and go. There is no go reason to make it official. Either it will be the 'lingua franca' of the land - or it won't be. Only time will tell.

  • mike - 12 years ago

    The problem is English will never become the official language of the US. This is because most Americans cannot speak English. So go ahead make it official. In fact I would like to see an official English language test to hire into any American company. In fact the test should be as rigorous as the tests that they hold in countries like India and China. I want to see how many Americans will make it. Please, please make it official. And I will vote to create a English language test with essays, grammer and reading comprehension. Make it hard like the GRE and GMAT. The same crap all us engineers have to take. Americans have it easy. Now the playing field will be level.

  • Marco - 12 years ago

    I am a proud Latino and really do not care what the official language of the country is. I think this is a waste of time, when we have more important issues that need attending. This seems like a move by a group of people that are afraid. I know English and I am also fluent in Spanish, I can also read and write it. So go ahead and pick your "official" language it makes no difference to me and it will not change anything.

  • Kicking - 12 years ago

    I live in South Florida. Hispanics have been accommodated for so long that speaking English is basically an insult to these people. They expect every one to be bi-lingual.
    It is difficult to apply for employment because employers expect you to be bi-lingual. It is causing discrimination against English speaking people.
    Resources that this state does not have are spent on catering to Hispanics.
    The children start school not speaking English and the saddest part is that these children have parents that have been here for years, they are receiving public assistance through Medicaid, (elderly Medicare), financial assistance, housing programs.
    There are parts of this state that English speaking people cannot even go into because English is not spoken.Hispanics als0 use the phrase "I do not speak English" when they perfectly understand it.
    If they are in this country they should have to speak English in order to enter our schools (not taking resources away from English speaking children), in order to receive taxpayer sponsored
    programs. Also, those who never paid into Social Security should not be allowed to collect
    benefits associated with that program. No taxes paid- no Medicare. No taxed paid- No Social Security benefits.
    Do you want to fly out of the airport on a plane that has been maintainanced by non-English speaking people taking direction from English speaking citizens? (Miami international/Ft Lauderdale international)
    The accommodations being made will eventually create disaster.
    There is only one common language that is spoken across the board- MONEY. They understand that readily enough.
    Welcome to Northern Cuba, Americans!

  • dodger - 12 years ago

    Currently, in order to become a naturalized U.S. citizen, the law requires that one must demonstrate the ability to read and write English. For those who choose to be here, either legally or illegally, but who do not seek citizenship, the taxpayers should not have to shell out their hard earned tax dollars to provide either instruction in English or government printed materials in other languages.
    Recently, counties in 26 states were chastised by the federal government for not providing voting aids and ballots in languages other than English. A question: Who is allowed to vote in the United States? If one was born here, the chances that one could reach voting age without being able to speak and read English are practically nil. If one is a naturalized citizen, he or she must, as stated above, already have shown that they can both read and write English. This begs the question; for whom are these voting aids and ballots being printed, hmmmmm?

  • Kerry - 12 years ago

    English should be the official language but not for the reasons crypto-racists claim. A multicultural society needs a common denominator of communication. Immigrants should learn English, not because we already speak it, but to allow immigrants of all backgrounds to communicate. I once played on a soccer team that had Portuguese, English, German, and French Creole speakers. We need a common language, how that is implemented is the real issue.

  • Jean - 12 years ago

    I always assumed english was the official language of the United States. I guess I was wrong. I was taught english. Everyone born here was taught english. I will say at least 90% of the people I interact with speak english. The other 10% were born in other countries. When did english become the "not official language?". I know I don't always speak english correctly and I certainly can't spell everything correctly, but people understand me. I am from the south and ain't and over yonder are words to me also. Everyone in America has an accent. North, South, East, Midwest and West. They may all seem strange to me, but I know what they are saying. I think english is the official language, but by all means, please make it legal!

  • Josh - 12 years ago

    First off you mean to tell me that English isnt our official language haha? But seriously its not about putting it on paper and enforcing it like a law. I believe that if we step back and look at the big picture and ask ourselves how can we optimize communication and keep things running as efficiently as possible? I believe having a dedicated language will benefit everyone greatly in the future. Granted implementing such a policy properly will be costly at first in terms of both money and peoples patience I cant come up with any reason other negative reasons why we should not have an "official language." Honestly, in my opinion, they could come up with an entire new language if they think it will make everyone happy, hell, then at least our children would be growing up with a slightly more diversified cultural outlook. Regardless of how this unfolds in order to make a sound decision on the matter all sense of pride or any other personal feelings need to be void of this decision in order to come up with an answer that will maximize the efficiency of how our country operates, thus benefiting everyone not now or tomorrow, or even next week but in subsequent years to come. Just my two cents.

  • Cheryl - 12 years ago

    With our country falling short on money...WHY are we spending money to print items in so many languages ? You can get a drivers license in any language yet all the signs are in ENGLISH. You can vote in any language. You can even take your citizenship test in your language. This has to stop. My husband and my family came here from many different countries and spoke our native language in the house and ONLY English outside the home. When they came home from school the children taught the parents the new language.I would also like to see the words African, Chinese etc., deleted from the word American. The only people who can use this is the first of your ancestors who came here. All others born here are Americans . Look up census records in the 1800's and you will see the language they spoke and all the children born there and in the new country. The new ones are Americans because they were born here. We need one language here. We are not taking away anyone's heritage, you should cherish that and can still speak your language, but should speak and read English without having everything printed in your native language. Our forefathers printed a quote on our money ..E Pluribus Unum ...From many..ONE. We are many who became one.Sorry I vote for ENGLISH only.

  • Me - 12 years ago

    OUR LANGUAGE IS ENLISH .... plain and simple... no one changed it for the indians when indeed they lived here before the white man came over and toook what was rightfully the indians land... then the white man brings over people to slave them and treat them like shit... yet made them learn english..... why in the world should it be any different for spanish speaking people.. or any other nations... you come into this country you should speak ENGLISH....(what you do inside your own home tho is your business..). but .. they arent any more special then my native people or any other that lived .and or my family that came over on the boat .. they all had to learn it... yes i agree people should learn to speak a different language while younger since its alot easier to learn then... but dont think we should change what has been done for many yrs against sooooo many people that lived and died to keep us safe... YOU WISH TO LIVE HERE.. LEARN AND DO AS WE DO.. DONT TRY TO BRING IN YOUR BELIEFS AND CHANGE IT UP .... THIS IS OUR COUNTRY... NOT YOURS.. DONT TRY TO CHANGE IT FOR YOU HAPPINESS.. BECAUSE MY FAMILY DIDNT GET THE SAME RESPECT AS YOU WISH TO GET... learn to deal with what we have for many yrs now.. we would have to do the same in your country to get along and grow...

    put your big panties on and get with the program... LEARN ENGLISH...

  • mickey doyle - 12 years ago

    the last time i looked the CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES WAS WRITTEN AND SPOKEN IN ENGLISH.and everybody knows how the democrats go against everything it stands for to our country.i bet if they could they would rewrite it in 1/2 english&1/2 spanish just to get the latino vote.

  • Pierre - 12 years ago

    From the point of view of a Canadian living in the province of Quebec, Americans talking about making English the official language of America is really scary! You're using some of the same arguments as some hardline 'Quebecois' (French separatist) Nationalists have over here in Quebec: you're 'not good enough' if you don't speak French... and having an accent and a bit of difficulty with French is considered 'not good enough'. Many hardline ethnocentric racists use it as an excuse to discriminate against not only minorities, but English speaking Canadians... we even have a commercial sign law, called Bill 101, that many hardliners use to harass non-English speakers, as though people are somehow signs... yes, it's that absurd, and it's widespread... practically the norm to think this, among the French...

    Want to know the results? It scares away educated immigrants, and English Canadians that grew up here, or makes them learn to be at least functionally bilingual... but does not lead to assimilation. It gives this province a bad image, and especially damages Montreal's economy with a permanent 'don't move here, you're not welcomed unless you're French' reputation. So what do we get? A small amount of educated Frenchmen from France and their former colonies, and a bunch of poor immigrants from the rest of the world, who figure learning French is the least of their worries (but they tend to still learn English too... because of the rest of Canada AND America!)

    So, if you want to add more artificial damage to your economy, go ahead and thinly disguise racism as semi-legitimate sounding 'language standardization' and 'cultural protection' (yeah, in that B.S. white supremacist kind of way of saying it...). You'll find out when it's too late that you scared away everyone that would have assimilated willingly and learn English in a positive 'joining the group' kind of way, rather than feel never 'good enough' by those who will point out 'there's a law about not speaking English (properly)'...

    Oh America, where are you going??? We used to look up to thee...

  • Lucille - 12 years ago

    America is supposed to be a diverse country made up of people from all over the world. Just because one gets angry for not being able to understand someone who is speaking their language does not mean everyone has to speak English! Maybe people who don't speak that language just need to challenge themselves and learn the other languages or at least the ones that are most spoken in this country (Spanish and Mandarin Chinese) since there are quite a lot. This poll is unfair and self-determined because of course people who don't speak English obviously do not read English therefore they cannot defend their opinion since they won't be able to understand what this poll is saying!!!!!!!

  • Keith - 12 years ago

    You won't believe this - I couldn't. This is what Obama has done for the citizens of the USA.

    I looked into the rules for citizenship requirements several years ago, due to the number of latinos that I ran into at my bank who couldn't speak English, and one of the rules was "English and Civics - you must pass a citizenship test to decide your ability to speak, read and write basic English and your knowledge of United State history and government." No wonder they don't apply. It is too hard and they don't have the time to study.

    We've been betrayed! It is now MUCH easier.
    Department of Homeland Security, Document OMB NO.1616-0052 dated 6/17/11 states:
    If you are over 65 years of age and have lived in the United States as a lawful permanent resident for periods totaling at least 20 years, you do not have to take the English test, but you do have to take a simpler version of the civics test in the language of your choice.

  • Brett - 12 years ago

    I cant believe this is even a question to be discussed. We the American people are English speaking Christians. The Constution is written in English. Amendments are written in English. This should be a poll.

  • Ginia Desmond - 12 years ago

    There are much bigger issues to deal with right now...this is similar to legislature making it illegal to burn our flag. For the time and effort it takes to pass anything through Congress, these are time wasting issues. English is how we do business, it IS the accepted language, and yes, children in school need to take ESL classes, open to their parents also. We have so many immigrants right now, from everywhere...truly a melting pot. I actually know people so fear based they are afraid we will turn into a Spanish speaking country any day now. I seriously doubt it, but we are so isolated, we forget most people from other countries (except France!) speak multiple languages. Did England pass a law making English their official language? I sincerely doubt it. I would like to see important work being done in an across the aisle, mature, adult, civil way. That should be made into law!!

  • TG - 12 years ago

    When my parents emmigrated in the 1940's, learning English was part of becoming a US citizen. English classes were available as were citizenship classes. Only the elderly who lived with their children or younger generations did not learn the language.
    For those who say that English is for England and we should be speaking American, there is a distinction : English spoken in England is called "British English" and over here we speak "American English". (Ref. Webster's dictionary)

  • Steve in Norte' Mehico (formerly CA) - 12 years ago

    English must be our official language. If people choose to live here, they need to learn the language. Learning English is a requirement when applying for Citizenship. Only legal citizens can vote, so there is NO reason for multiple languages on ballots or other official local, State and Federal documents. One common language is what holds a nation together. Liberal fracturing of our country by catagorizing people by their culture, nationality and languages is what is tearing our country apart.

  • Rick - 12 years ago

    When overseas in military, I had to learn some words to get by in foreign countries. Had I decided to stay there, I sure as hell would learn the language. That should be universal to survive unless you want a free ride somehow! HMMMM.

  • Jeff Cornwell - 12 years ago

    We should make English the official language. If anyone misses out on services because he or she doesn't know English, that's his or her fault.

  • Fred - 12 years ago

    I would wish you could read what the President of Australia recently said about the Moslems who are trying to run their country. We are the host and you freely elected to come to our country. If you can't accept our laws as we have always had them,YOU ARE ALSO WELCOME TO LEAVE. I wish our government had the guts to protect our constitution and quit giving immigrant WELFARE. The ILLEGALS have come to demand it in their own minds. GINGRICH will probably try to make them Legal for the votes he'll get. THEY ALL NEED TO SPEAK AND LEARN ENGLISH AS THE "OFFICIAL" LANGUAGE Since this is a CHRISTIAN Nation as the majority has ruled (except our president), Congress should also make prayer to Jesus Christ back into the schools and ALL public gatherings if they have the BELIEVE IN DOING what the voters put them there to do"""""""""

  • Dave - 12 years ago

    Listen to www.TruNews.com with Rick Wiles (internet or shortwave)

  • dan morrissette - 12 years ago

    The intent of the founders was that immigrants were welcome, but that they should CONFORM to THIS SOCIETY. Tho we are a melting pot society, English is the American chosen language. It was so at our founding, it has been so through or history.
    "Born in other countries, yet believing you could be happy in this, our laws acknowledge, as they should do, your right to join us in society, conforming, as I doubt not you will do, to our established rules. That these rules shall be as equal as prudential considerations will admit, will certainly be the aim of our legislatures, general and particular." Jefferson ~ letter to Hugh Lawson White, May 2, 1801; “The Jeffersonian Cyclopedia,” edited by John P. Foley (1900), Section 1288, p. 144
    ~~
    Benjamin Franklin, on the threat posed by German immigration to Pennsylvania, 1753
    "Unless the Stream of their Importation could be turned... they will soon so outnumber us, that all the advantages we have, will not in my Opinion be able to preserve our Language, and even our Government will become precarious."
    ~~
    Theodore Roosevelt Immigration Speech 1919
    Theodore Roosevelt, Immigration Speech 1919
    "In the first place we should insist that the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equity with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace or origin. But this is predicated upon the man's becoming an American and nothing but an American. There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American but something else also, isn't an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag, and this excludes the red flag which symbolizes all wars against liberty and civilization, just as much as it excludes any flag of a nation to which we are hostile. We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language...and we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people." Theodore Roosevelt in a letter to the American Defense Society in 1919.
    "Every immigrant who comes here should be required within five years to learn English or to leave the country," he said in a statement to the Kansas City Star in 1918. "English should be the only language taught or used in the public schools.

    “We can have no "50-50" allegiance in this country. Either a man is an American and nothing else, or he is not an American at all.”

  • Donald Hammers - 12 years ago

    A common language is one of the cornerstones for keeping our diverse society together. Since the beginnings of this country, the newly formed states have been required to have the English language as their official language of common communication in order to join the union of United States. Our laws are codified in the English language for the ease of understanding for all citizens. Our military gives commands in the English language. It makes no sense to require more than one language in common. In fact, to even suggest that every U.S. citizen be required to learn multiple languages in order to communicate with their fellow citizens is divisive and retrograde thinking. Of course, if we wanted to divide up the United States into smaller sections, I can think of no better way to do it than be allowing more than one common language. The biblical story of the Tower of Babel comes to mind.

  • Chris Kempf - 12 years ago

    There are somewhere between 5,000 and 6,000 spoken languages in the world today. Perhaps, there are 70 or 80 clearly "dominant" languages of which English is but one of several. Many of these thousands of languages are evapoating with the loss of cultures and places. The Irish have their own, the Cornish may find a grandfather or grandmother who still remembers. It won't survive..., nor in the great scheme of things will English or American.., they are really different. Beowulf was written in English but it was an English you wouldn't easily understand, if at all; Chaucer wrote in an English that you would find very difficult to understand and Shakespeare wrote in a beautiful English that most people refuse to read..., it is difficult to understand at an 8th grade reading level.

    Most educated Europeans speak 3 languages and some speak 4 or 5. Americans generally speak 1. Hmmmm?

    Languages are fluid, they are constantly moving this way and that.., they are in a state being over here or over there.., some moving faster or some slower than others. This has been going on for at least 100,000 years. There have been those in the last few centuries who who have tried to legislate language. There are exceptionally good references on this. Greene, Tomasello, maybe even Fitch.

    This cannot be legislated anymore than the temperature of the seas or the direction of the wind. I can't see the language police coming in to arrest me for speaking to my lover in French. Well, since I am moving on towards my 70's French lovers aren't that much of an issue.

  • Art Brush - 12 years ago

    English for the offical government language. Why should our taxes pay for by-lingual schools? Why should our taxes pay for 29 printed copies of different languages with nine dialects of Chineese. This is totally foolish on our part. Do any of the folks apposed to this think they could go to any other Country and be taught in your mother toung? Try going to Mexico and get a drivers liecense and take the test and pass it, its in Spanish and its a very tough test.

  • Michele - 12 years ago

    I can't get a job in AMERICA because I do not speak Spanish. What a friggin joke! Learn our language or go back where you came from. All we do is accommodate these illegal immigrants.

  • Scott - 12 years ago

    This is America not where they came from. They made the effort to join our team not the other way around! Seems funny that our American society is being forced to decide on what language, or some racial question or religion or something else. Bottom line, America was began in English, Christian, and originated as a white culture. Not we are being force fed to comply with cultures that are third world or non asimiliative? Muslims have always been opposite Christianity! I keep hearing that Christians that dont want Muslims in America are either terrorists or racist? The true terror is the Koran and them infiltrating our society to just complain and want us to respect them instead of the other way around! Rand Paul is my vote!

  • Linda - 12 years ago

    I like the 4th choice,

    Official or not, kids should be required to take English in school. For adults, we just need better resources to learn, and to get by in their native languages until they do

    EXCEPT I do not think (assume non-English speaking) children should be required to take English but I do think it's probably a good idea for ESL classes to be available in every school district.

    Also the "better resources to learn, and to get by in their native languages" should not be provided by the government - although government incentives for opening such facilities/businesses might be a good thing.

    Bottom line, English IS the official language of the United States; we don't need a law stating the obvious. And, if you want to come here and live you should learn the language (same as I would have to do if I went to live in France or any other non-English speaking country). But we do need to accept that non-English speakers come here to live and will need services (not government provided) to learn the language.

  • David - 12 years ago

    This is America and English has always been our National language. America is a free Republic founded in liberty and justice, with a Constitution. We are NOT controlled by a European Union, NWO or the UN and/or their ideals. We are ALL free, voting, American citizens and may I remind all of you about your allegiance.

    "I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."

    English as the National language keeps this Country united and indivisble.

  • Teri - 12 years ago

    In order for us all to relate to one another we have to speak one predominate language. The fact remains that English is our language. My parents, grandparents, my spouses parents, grandparents never spoke English but wanted to become part of their new home. So they struggled to learn the new language. If new immigrants want to intergrate with our country they should be eager to join in. If they don't and want only to retain their own language there will be a long and hard struggle for them and their children and past Americans will be slow to accept them as they cannot converse together. Americans always have been proud to be part of the melting pot........... we can't melt till we can all converse with one another. It is as simple as that. Join in and become part of this wonderful country.

  • John Gaver - 12 years ago

    If for no other reason, English should be our official language, since it would make tremendous economic sense. All government forms (except such forms as visa applications and citizenship applications), should be printed ONLY in English. In court, if a person doesn't speak English, it should be that person or the party who called that person, who should be responsible for paying an interpreter. If you come here, you are expected to learn our language, because we aren't going to learn yours. We aren't going to be out the expense of dealing with your failure to assimilate into our society. The phrase that should apply for those who don't speak English is, "Caveat emptor". In other words, if you don't speak English in the USA, you do so at your own risk. If you don't want to learn to speak English, then maybe you should giver serious consideration to going to a country that speaks your language.

  • Bill - 12 years ago

    If we as a country are not united by something as basic as a common language, (not to mention a common culture) then what are we united by?

  • Jonathan - 12 years ago

    I think that English should be the official language of the United States as a whole. This is not stopping people from speaking their native language, it is important that we understand each other at work, and in most other areas. This way their is no misunderstanding in any aspect. Yes this has and will remain a country that is vast in the different people that have come here to call the United States home. We should not take anyone's ability to speak their language, but as a United Country I feel that making this Official language is more important today then it has ever been before. We could become a better nation and more welcome when the language is English across the board. This does not mean that we have to or even think about outlawing anything, just when we go and get our driver's license or pretty much anything else than we all can understand what the forms or saying and what we have to do. Education is key for this to happen and it is not and should not be used for any other reason except to make all Citizens to be able to talk to anyone. It is a positive step and hopefully also make everyone be able to talk to each other and really understand all that is being said.
    Thanks
    Jonathan

  • red - 12 years ago

    6.05 percent of Americans are useless idiots. I'm pretty sure they all voted for Obama as well and will again!

  • Carlos - 12 years ago

    Not only should English be our official language, but all official documents (ballots, court doc(s), congressional correspondence, etc.) should be written in English, and ONLY English. This has only been an issue, since the immigration flood gates were opened around 1965. Illegal immigration needs to stop, and legal immigration needs to be cut back the the sustainable levels of the 60's. Voting rights should only be extended only to natural born citizens. Birthright citizenship, should be exposed for the charade, that it is, and ended, as well. American born, pseudo-citizen voters, have totally corrupted and destroyed California.

  • Major Bell - 12 years ago

    I have no way of knowing where all of the commenters reside, but if you live in Houston Texas, you would have a first-hand, daily education about how much we need to protect our language…the very glue that unites our citizens…the simplest of interactions, the borrowing of a cup of sugar from a neighbor is nearly impossible in my neighborhood.

    With no hint of exaggeration, I hear far more Spanish than English spoken in this city. I’ve also had some very negative experiences at the hands of those that refuse to learn our language so maybe I am jaded, but I more and more resent their language as it has begun to personify their defiance and their disrespect for our great nation and every other American that has prided themselves in becoming just that Americans.

    And to clarify a misnomer I continue to hear is that America is a nation of immigrants…maybe a hundred years ago, we could have justified this notion, but no longer. We are proudly Americans with no need to embellish our nationality! And I do not feel that our citizens should be burdened with the cost of teaching others our language…we all know that I refer to illegal aliens not people that have wanted to be Americans bad enough that they followed our laws, assimilated, and learned our language.

    I’ll share a recent event at our state capitol building regarding a bill proposed to deter sanctuary cities, a panel of people sat down before our senators to address their concerns, one man brought an interpreter though he had been in America for 23 years and had been a citizens for 10 years, he still could not communicate in our language. I find this extremely insulting since he did it to drive a point home yet he had Americans making excuses for him. Yes, you may be under the impression that our language is not in jeopardy, but you would be wrong! Demand that English become our official language and stop this nonsense of printing every document in other languages…the very least, anyone living within the confines of our border needs to do is to learn the language of this country! Sorry, this is more than a sore subject for me and I sincerely doubt that I would be in the minority on this subject!

  • Carlos - 12 years ago

    Not only should English be our official language, but all official documents (ballots, court doc(s), congressional correspondense, etc.) should be written in English, and ONLY English.

  • Todd Hoffman - 12 years ago

    You guys are idiots! English is our official national language. If the question is should we add Spanish. The answer is NO! Those that wish to be part of this country should assimilate to become an American. Contribute the interest of this their new country. They should also be able to celebrate their heritage by all means. They should also enter our country legally!

  • Dfallis - 12 years ago

    My ancestors were from Ireland, Scotland, France, and England. The most predominant of these were the Irish and they spoke Gaelic. If they could and they did learn English because it was a requirement and is the Official language, then anyone can learn English. It's wrong to go to another country and expect them to adopt your customs because you are too arrogant, lazy, or stupid to learn their customs. English, learn it or leave!

  • Jim Walker - 12 years ago

    Theodore Roosevelt said it so well that I submit his quote.

    'In the first place, we should insist that if the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equality with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace, or origin. But this is predicated upon the person's becoming in every facet an American, and nothing but an American...There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American, but something else also, isn't an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag.... We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language... And we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people.'
    Theodore Roosevelt 1907

  • Jerry - 12 years ago

    Quoting President Theodore Roosevelt: "Every immigrant who comes here should be required within five years to learn English or leave the country".

    I'm sure he was referencing "Legal Immigrants" because he would not allow "Illegal Immigrants" to stay in the country.

  • Jerry - 12 years ago

    Quoting President Theodore Roosevelt: "Every immigrant who comes here shold be required within five years to learn English or leave the country".

    I'm sure he was referencing "Legal Immigrants" because he would not allow "Illegal Immigrants" to stay in the country.

  • Robert Phillips - 12 years ago

    This is America ! If you want to come here, learn ENGLISH ! If you want to speak only your language, go home and speak it ! Get Legal, learn English and pay for it yourself. Real Americans are tired of paying for your food, healthcare, lodging, your babies' births and much more. The only reason you come here is for a free ride. If you take care of these necessities yourself without the belief that we Americans should pay for your needs, then WELCOME !!!
    If not, watch us get madder and madder !

  • rhcrest - 12 years ago

    To those who have a problem with English being the official language of this country, here is a number you can call. Dial 1-800-LEAVETHEUSA!

  • Pathfinder - 12 years ago

    The days for multi-culturalism are ended. America is an exceptional nation not because of "diversity " but because of the freedoms we enjoy as individuals and as a united population . "Diversity" and accomodations for foreign nationals not able to speak English is divisive and does nothing to strengthen our nation. Picture a future an America with diverse national enclaves as we see now in certain cities. Picture an extended telephone menu of language choices every time you make a phone call. If "press 2" is good for one ethnicity then why not accomodate every foreign language???? That picture would not is not pretty nor is it a picture of a unified population. Language is communication. And communication is vital to every countries viability. One common language simplifies mass communication. So, based on American tradition, English IS and MUST BE the official language of this nation. If it takes a law to correct the Politically Correct lunacy perpetuates language diversity ...... then so be it .

  • Paul137 - 12 years ago

    The subject here is "Official English," NOT "English Only," and it would be perfectly constitutional

    Nobody would be forbidden to speak other languages.

    But -- with very limited exceptions -- if you want to deal with the government, you either have to speak English or supply your own translator. And if the translator is devious and/or incompetent, that's **your** problem.

    This would mean that we wouldn't be providing ballots or official election-information materials in languages other than English. And we wouldn't be forcing medical facilities and practitioners to provide translation services, at the facilities' or practioners' expense, to accommodate non-English-speakers.

    The one, limited exception would be government provision of translation when needed for criminal trials.

    Prior commenter William Pisani wrote, "The language that anybody speaks is protected by free speech, therefore making English the official language of the US, would be unconstitutional." This is just stupid -- it has nothing to do with free speech.

  • Mike - 12 years ago

    Years ago when I was in school and wanted to go to college you had to take a foreign language.
    Normally German, Spanish or French. When did we change and why? Now we have English and spanish (not considered foreign). Time to get back to basics.

  • Blaine Nay - 12 years ago

    If we don't make English the nation's official language now, the official language will soon be Spanish.

  • Doug - 12 years ago

    I agree with everything Guillermo has said. But, as it relates to the question about making English the official language, I do question why he prefaces his remarks with, "I don't know if my "Hispanic" name will cause some to criticize me." Is it because the huge number of Hispanics living in this country today appear not to feel the need to learn our common language? Where I live (in So California) they seem content to live their lives speaking Spanish and getting their information about their communities and the world from Univision and a few other Spanish-language media outlets -- outlets that disseminate heavy-handed political propaganda about immigration. I have a problem with this and I hope Guillermo does too.

  • Don Rushing - 12 years ago

    I believe that English should be the official language in the US and if the people don't like it, or be assimilated into our society, then they can always leave this country. We are not responsible for welfare of the people that come here illegally. They broke the law and should
    not profit from their actions. Those that have come here by legal means and have worked to
    become assimilated and abide by the law to become US citizens I applaude wholeheartedly and they have my support.

  • Chris - 12 years ago

    Yes, English should be declared the "National language" because we ALL have to have a common language that everyone can speak for unification as a way for all the different nationalities of immigrants who reside here in the US to be able to communicate with each other. It doesn't mean people can't speak other languages, nor does it mean that ppl have to lose their identity, it has NOTHING to do with stripping away a persons culture. It has to do with unification, safety (ie for workers and at hospitals etc) and not being able to communicate a common language is to allow division of this great country of immigrants because that's what happens when there is no conformity and unification.

  • Nate - 12 years ago

    My vote would be a bit different than some of the choices. My vote would be for English to be the "official" language. This would mean this is what is taught in school . All contracts and legal obligations would have to be English.
    My addition would be that we still respect the rights of those who don't speak English. If you are charged with a crime you have the right to have a qualified interpreter. If there is a large population of non-English speaking people in an area, public safety information should be given in multiple languages. Private individuals and organizations should still have the right to use whatever language they choose. For example, I should be able to be allowed to have a privately owned broadcast Spanish TV station. The only requirement on that station would be that public service information should also be broadcast in English.

  • Guillermo I. Castillo-Feliu - 12 years ago

    I don't know if my "Hispanic" name will cause some to criticize me. Well, I taught Spanish at the college level for some forty years and I, together with many other foreign language teachers, often had to teach English to our native-born Americans since they weren't very familiar with their own language(I myself came to the United States more than fifty years ago, legally). Be that as it may, immigrants, who have come to the United States through the centuries, have always recognized that they would need to learn English, the dominant language in the country and they all have given the appropriate length of time. In fact, they all have wanted to. Most Americans are monolingual and, thus, are unaware of just how difficult and time-consuming it is to learn another language, especially if they arrive in the States as adults. But, then, this has always been the case (just study the difficulties encountered by the large numbers of immigrants who came to this nation in the first twenty years of the twentieth century). Before making English the "official" language, those who advocate it should closely examine the effects of doing this. English is already the "de facto" language. In one generation, the children of non-English-speaking immigrants will all claim English as their first language. Many older adults will also be able to handle the language well and effectively. There are many linguists who have studied immigration and the learning of English. They can more effectively address a subject than politicians who simply want to score points without the factual information that they should have to do so.

  • Uli - 12 years ago

    When our country was "made official", the language on all documents and agreements . . So, "official "or not, this is the language our forefathers agreed to use. Since then, it has been understood that, while being able to continue with the traditions and religious beliefs or your heritage, your country of origin, you were now part of the "New World", a new beginning without opression, with a new sense of belonging, and for better understanding and a lack of Esperanto, everyone found English to be the common language, no matter where the new immigrants came from - and they were PROUD to assimilate in that manner, proud to fly our flag, proud to sing our anthem, proud to be one of "WE, the people"" . It may have been taken for granted that this was understood, and, so far, no group of immigrants has ever challenged that decision, until an overwhelming amount of immigrants from Latin America came. Until that time, every new immigrant was proud to be and become an "American"...proud to be "one of us", one for all, all for one- one of a tough, daring group that didn't let others bully them or force anything on them, be it religion,that included speaking English, singing our anthem in English, taking marriage vows in English and counting from 10 to one on New Year's Eve. Now we have a development where this group feeling has ceased to be among new immigrants, where there is a clear decision to NOT be part of our group, NOT fly our flag above al or AT ALL, not partake in our traditions, not partake in the assimilation into the new country you desire to have a passport of. What does it mean, though : "to have a passport"? Doesn't that, essentially, mean : "to be a part of, one for all, all for one"??We hear now "Proud to be Latina/Latino" insetad of "Proud to be American, being "Latin American"suddenly takes priority over "being American", flyers are Spanish ONLY, advertisements, jobs ONLY for Spanish speakers, or those who speak mainly Spanish and a little English ( which makes any communication extremely lengthy if not impossible if you happen to NOT speak Spanish), "Bilingual"means "Spanish/English" and not bilingual in general, which excludes all those immigrants who did bother to learn English. This has become absurd . There is no more "equality" , "equality"has now become "latin domination" at the expense of the hosts. It has gotten to the point where true Americans, their hosts, if you will, HAVE to not only speak Spanish, but dress, behave , eat, think and breathe Latin America to get and keep a job. It is EXPECTED and in some cases DEMANDED by an overwhelming number of latin American immigrants to understand and converse in Spanish, or an angry screaming tantrum, generously sprinkled with derogatories ( in Spanglish) will rain on anyone who will not engage. Take it from those directly and most affected, here in Mid- and South Florida. Conquest via passport. Something needs to change here. There NEEDS to be a line drawn - if English has to be made the official language to get the point across - so be it. So, in my opinion, if those new immigrant prospects want their passport, that comes with all the benefits they so desire, like SSN ,etc - they also need to desire their identity as "one for all, all for one". It is absurd to want to be "adopted" by a new "family"and not want to be an integral part of it, not want to adapt, assimilate , be proud of it and forsake all others, meaning, giving up citizenship of their country of origin, for instance, and speaking English in their new country of choice. Not much of a choice to only come here for the benefits without putting your heart into it.

  • Pathfinder - 12 years ago

    The days for multi-culturalism are ended. America is an exceptional nation not because of "diversity " but because of the freedoms we enjoy as individuals and as a united population . "Diversity" and accomodations for foreign nationals not able to speak English is divisive and does nothing to strengthen our nation. Picture a future an America with diverse national enclaves as we see now in certain cities. Picture an extended telephone menu of language choices every time you make a phone call. If "press 2" is good for one ethnicity then why not accomodate every foreign language???? That picture would not is not pretty nor is it a picture of a unified population. Language is communication. And communication is vital to every countries viability. One common language simplifies mass communication. So, based on American tradition, English IS and MUST BE the official language of this nation. If it takes a law to correct the Politically Correct lunacy perpetuates language diversity ...... then so be it .

  • SeanO - 12 years ago

    If you go to Germany, they speak German; in Spain it's Spanish; Italy, Italian; France, French; The issue is that in what used to be known as the "New World" (Western hemisphere), the lands were settled predominantly by Europeans. The native languages were rendered obsolete and we speak mainly Spanish, French, English, and Portuguese in the Americas. This country was founded by people who spoke English...we then opened our borders to peoples from every country for immigration, when they got to Ellis Island they had to either use English, or wait till someone showed up who spoke their language. The legal immigration of people has slowed down considerable in the last 70 years, but our concern with this issue has gone up due to bleeding heart, politically correct people who want to pander to anyone with a minor hardship in an attempt to curry favor with them. This has nothing to do with actually helping the people who need it, it has to do with expanding a political power base.

  • Carl G. Oehling - 12 years ago

    God proved a nation has to be united by one official language or it will divide into countries with boundries. It is always intelligent and profitable to be more educated, which is provided by being multilingual.

  • Matt - 12 years ago

    For many years it was a requirement that one have a knowledge of English before citizenship. Where did that go? It makes no difference to me where you come from: if you come here and want to stay, this is our language. I would be expected to have at least a working knowledge of yours if I went to your country. If you need a document translated into some other language, you pay for it, not me.

    Unless it has changed in the years since I was in Federal service, there is already a rule requiring official business (contracts, etc.) to be conducted in English. Sounds like a bit of a double standard to me.

    Not understanding the language of the land is not only isolationist, it is dangerous. If you can't communicate with emergency services personnel, you are at risk. Trying to accommodate everyone is insane.

  • Robertbob - 12 years ago

    It sure won't be islamic. Any foreigners coming to this country after December 31,2011, must be able to speak and understand English as this is the offical language of the Americas and if they can not or do not, don't come here. As of this date, no more welfare or healthcare or anything else free from the American government. We don't need any more foreigners coming into this country and taking advantage of the American people. Just because your kid might be born in this country does no longer make him or it or you an American citizen.

  • robin - 12 years ago

    With a few exceptions regarding age (over 50), and disability, any foreign national who applies for U.S. citizenship is already required to read, write and speak basic English. The English language should have been made official in the United States decades ago.

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